What type of joint is known for allowing movement around two perpendicular planes?

The condyloid joint, also known as an ellipsoidal joint, allows for movement around two perpendicular planes, enabling motions such as flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction. This type of joint features an oval articular surface of one bone that fits into a complementary depression of another bone, providing a range of motion that includes both circular motion and a limited degree of rotation.

This dual-axis motion is particularly evident in joints such as the wrist, where the radius articulates with the carpal bones. The ability to move in two planes makes condyloid joints versatile for various activities, including grasping and maneuvering objects.

Other joint types mentioned have different movement capabilities: hinge joints primarily allow movement in one plane (like a door), ball and socket joints permit a high degree of rotational movement in multiple directions, and pivot joints allow rotation around a single axis. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the definition of condyloid joints and their unique role in facilitating movement.